Gene with his daughter, who drives the EV daily to commute to work.

I’ve always been fascinated by technology, and when I first started following Tesla, I was drawn to the idea of a car that felt like a “computer on wheels.” When the Model Y was released, I was intrigued, and after seeing the price drop thanks to tax incentives in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, I knew it was the right time to make the leap. The Model Y was the perfect fit for my family.

Owning an EV has been an incredible experience. “Wow, it really does feel like we’re driving in the future,” my nephew said after his first ride. The minimalist design, the lack of an internal combustion engine, and the smooth driving experience make it unlike anything I’ve ever driven. I also appreciate the multiple safety features—six to eight cameras, collision warnings, and autonomous driving capabilities. Before purchasing my EV, I rented one for a conference in North Carolina. The three-hour drive each way gave me the confidence that an EV could seamlessly fit into my life.

I’m an Energy Specialist who helps my school district save money and energy. I was pleased to represent my school and work – by showing up to the conference in an EV.

Living in a rural area – everyone in our household drives – so this is a car the whole family can use. With a 30 mile commute to Greensboro four days a week, my daughter usually drives it. The EV has become a valuable addition to our family vehicle lineup. Charging at home has been effortless, especially with the $1,000 Duke Energy incentive that helped us install a Level 2 charger. With no public chargers in our county, 572 square miles, home charging is essential. 

The cost savings have been even better than I expected. Since purchasing the EV in April 2024, we’re close to $3,000 in gas savings alone. The $7,500 federal tax credit and the Model Y’s price drop made the purchase an even better deal.

Road trips have been seamless. A recent drive to Norfolk, VA—200 miles one way—was smooth, with plenty of reliable charging stops along the way. Greensboro and Charlotte have great charging infrastructure, and when I stopped at a Sheetz to supercharge, I had time to grab a snack and use the restroom, making the process effortless.

Though I haven’t directly convinced anyone to switch to an EV yet, people are definitely curious. They like the uniqueness of it, and my son’s partner in Chicago is interested in making the switch. 

I’m an Energy Specialist who helps my school district save money and energy. I was pleased to be representing my school and work by showing up to the conference in an EV.

I hope that as more people experience EVs firsthand, they’ll see the benefits for themselves.

Looking ahead, I’d love to add solar panels and battery storage to my home, though I’m waiting for prices to come down. In my work with the school system, I’ve already helped secure major solar panel installations at two schools through the Renew America Schools grant, and I’m proud of the progress we’re making in clean energy.

Would I ever go back to a gas car? No. I’m keeping an eye on used EVs from rental car companies transitioning their EV fleets—picking up one of the models could be a great deal and a way to add another EV to my family’s transportation choices. But for now, I’m fully enjoying the benefits of driving electric and helping set an example for others in my community.